Zoo

The Zoo at Chehaw is home to 234 specimens representing over 73 different species. Enjoy natural, outdoor exhibits including Cheetahs, Black Rhinoceros’, Meerkats, Black Bears, Alligators, and many more, while you stroll through our scenic boardwalks and cypress swamp. Participate in animal feedings and keeper talks every weekend. Chehaw’s African Veldt Ride is free with admission, and will take you through our largest exhibit where seven different species roam in natural herds. The Zoo at Chehaw undergoes regular, thorough investigation to ensure that it has met, and will to continue to meet, ever-rising standards. These standards encompass animal care, veterinary programs, conservation, education, and safety.

Sus cebifrons

Conservation Status: Critically endangeredThis bizarre-looking forest-dweller was only recognized as a separate species in 1993. Adult male warty pigs usually develop pairs of warts on their cheeks, jaws and above their canine teeth. They also have distinctive crests and manes. When threatened, the pigs raise their mane to make themselves appear larger and more menacing.

Visayan warty pigs live in groups of four or five. They dine on tubers, roots and fruits of the forest, but they may also eat cultivated crops. Their crop-eating ways have increased in recent years -- about 95% of the pigs' forest habitat has been cleared by local farmers who cut down woodlands to plant crops. When the soil becomes unproductive in a few years, they move on to clear more land. As a result, the pigs are now reduced to only a few Visayan Islands in the Philippine island chain.

Still other factors are endangering the warty pigs. These include overhunting and inter-breeding with domestic pigs. Scientists are working to protect the remaining warty pigs and rebuild wild populations.